Secrets of Ancoats and New Islington

Is there any place in the UK that has changed so quickly and so utterly as Ancoats? From years spent languishing in post-industrial decline to being crowned one of ‘the coolest neighbourhoods in the world’ in the blink of an eye. What’s the story here?

Find out with Jonathan Schofield Tours, with whom you’ll track Ancoats’ changes by strolling its streets, crossing its canals, and taking a look inside one of its most fascinating buildings.

Starting at Cutting Room Square, your expert tour guide will reveal the layers of history that make Ancoats special, from its place in establishing Manchester’s reputation as ‘Cottonopolis’ to the notorious street gangs, or ‘scuttlers’, who once patrolled and fought here.

But this winsome stroll is also about the urban regeneration and cultural energy of Ancoats today, which boasts everything from grassroots theatres to Manchester’s only Michelin-starred restaurant.

Your tour will take in epoch-making industrial architecture, some bad new build, some excellent new build, a bit of fine ecclesiastical work and lots of lovely bread, beer, food and – given all of those canals – a good few gaggles of geese.

Whether you’re an Ancoats and New Islington local, or you’re visiting Manchester for the first time, this leisurely tour presents the perfect way to uncover the past, present and future of one of the city’s standout districts.